Working Out Self Care

Now what I’ve cleverly done here is used a pun to disguise the fact that this post is about working out. As in, exercise. PLS DON’T CLOSE THE TAB YET.

I’ve come to realise that in order to work out self care, working out is actually a good place to start.

The word ‘exercise’ is not a favourite for everyone, so I’m going to use the term ‘work out’ – think of it this way: you’re working to get results – which is an achievement in itself – and it’s getting you out – whether that’s out of the house, out of your room, or simply out of bed. Each of these is something to be proud of, because you found the strength to do it.

If you’re not up to working out yet, that’s okay – like I said, anything you’re doing that requires some form of strength – be it physical or mental – is a great start in itself. The key is to do something – your body and your mind will feel better for it. If at some point you are feeling up to it, maybe you’d like to try out some of these work out ideas:

– go for a short walk (hence the featured image for the post)

– try a short jog

– go for a swim once a week or once a fortnight – make it more regular if you’re particularly enjoying it!

– give yoga a go – it’ll help your body and your mind (YouTube tutorials are a good place to start)

– try to find a Zumba class (or something along the lines of music and aerobics) in your local area – they’re usually pretty cheap and are ideal if you want to get fit but want to have fun in a more creative way

– try hula-hooping – it may be something you’ve never taken seriously but it’s actually really good for your tummy muscles and it can definitely be addictive!

– if you’re feeling brave, try starting dance classes – this is a great way to meet people and to learn a new skill – dance is empowering, disciplinary and most importantly, lots of fun! There’s always a beginners class somewhere nearby so lack of experience is no excuse! A lack of confidence will be made up for as soon as you’re there!

– joining a gym might actually be what gets you motivated – if we’re paying for something we often feel more obliged to use it. Your local gym might even have a 1-month free trial to check it’s definitely something you would commit to

– it’s a new year – there’s never a better time to try a new sport you’ve always admired! Google places near you to find opportunities for beginners classes in whatever you’d like to try and email or call asking for a taster session. These are usually free and will give you the opportunity to check it out and give it a go without committing to a month or term.

Remember that not every day has to entail a work out, you know your limits and what you’re comfortable doing – self care is about your wellbeing and happiness. If you feel up to it, try to set yourself work out goals each week or month, making sure they are achievable so that they push you as much as you’re capable so that you can feel the reward of hard work and reaching a goal.

You can apply the hard work pays off ethic to almost everything you do – working out in a way that you enjoy might be the perfect-and-not-intimidating start.

Work out tip: Create a playlist of your favourite upbeat music that makes you feel good and listen to it during your work out (I would recommend silence or a tutorial soundtrack during a yoga session)! Spotify has lots of playlists to choose from (whether you have premium or not), but here’s a list to get you started:

1. Superstition – Stevie Wonder

2. Sexual – NEIKED

3. Move Your Body – Sia

4. Blow Your Mind (Mwah) – Dua Lipa

5. You Make My Dreams – Daryl Hall & John Oates

6. Into You – Ariana Grande

7. Cheap Thrills – Sia

8. Crazy in Love – Beyonce

9. September – Earth, Wind & Fire

10. Dimelo – Rak-Su

Remember to eat something before and after you do any form of workout, and be sure to drink plenty of water throughout. Oh, and treat yourself to something sweet and sugary afterwards!

‘It’s okay if you failed yesterday. Today is a new day. This lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint.’